Alphabetical list of Entities
Encyclopedia of Mythical Beings
Wulver
In the folklore of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, the wulver is a creature with a man’s body and a wolf’s head. Despite its monstrous appearance, it is a gentle and solitary being. Related articles: the Story of the Wulver in Scotland Unlike a werewolf, the wulver is not a transformed human and is naturally kind. It … Read more
Gilles de Rais: Historical Figure and Demonological Subject
French nobleman associated with military leadership, criminal trials, and demonological accusations Gilles de Rais (c. 1405-1440) was a French nobleman, military commander, and companion-in-arms of Joan of Arc who became notorious for allegations of murder, sexual crimes against children, and occult practices. In demonological literature, he is referenced not as a demonic entity but as … Read more
Zubba, Obscure Name in French Demonological References
A marginal figure in demonological tradition with no role in canonical grimoires Zubba is referenced in French demonological tradition as the name of a demon, though no narrative, function, or iconography is attached to the figure. The name appears in encyclopedic entries or secondary lists, where it is typically followed by a cross-reference to the … Read more
Zoubdadeyer, Fortress of Demons on the Sasanian Frontier
Theophanes’ account of Kavadh I, legendary treasure, and exorcism at a demon-guarded castle in late antique Persia Zoubdadeyer is the name of a fortified site mentioned in the Chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor, a Byzantine source composed in the early 9th century, recounting events from late antiquity. According to Theophanes, the castle stood on the … Read more
Zoroaster, Prophet of Ahura Mazda and Figure of Magic in Ancient and Early Modern Traditions
Zarathustra’s legacy from Iranian religious reformer to mythical magician in Greek, Arabic, and European literature Zoroaster (Greek: Ζωροάστης; Avestan: Zarathustra) is recognized as the founder of Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic and dualistic religion that emerged in ancient Iran and continues to be practiced today, particularly among Parsis in India and Zoroastrians in Iran. While the precise … Read more
Zoaphite, Obscure Term for a Composite or Monstrous Being
Mentions of ‘zoaphite’ in historical references and its association with monstrous or hybrid forms The term Zoaphite appears in certain antiquarian or encyclopedic entries as a designation for a monstrous or abnormal being, often without detailed elaboration. In such texts, the entry for “zoaphite” typically includes a cross-reference to “monsters”, suggesting that the word was … Read more
